Providence metro construction jobs down in June

By Meg Sullivan PBN Staff Writer

Rhode Island construction employment declined five percentage points between June 2012 and June 2013, according to an analysis of federal employment data released Tuesday by the Associated General Contractors of America. More

ARLINGTON – Rhode Island construction employment declined five percentage points between June 2012 and June 2013, according to an analysis of federal employment data released Tuesday by the Associated General Contractors of America.

The decline came as construction employment grew in most metropolitan areas for the same period. Most New England states saw growth, particularly Massachusetts.

Of the 339 metro areas across the country, 191 experienced an increase in construction jobs while 51 experienced no change. Rhode Island was among the 97 areas where construction jobs declined. Rhode Island lost 900, or five percent, of the 16,900 jobs it tallied in June 2012.

Massachusetts enjoyed a five percent statewide increase in jobs. The Boston-Cambridge-Quincy area tied for highest number of jobs added over the 12 month period, with 9,900 or an increase of 19 percent.

The number of metro areas that have experienced growth has risen for the fifth consecutive month this June. The record of 191 areas adding jobs was the highest since March 2012, according to the report.

Despite the increased hiring, the construction industry’s recovery is “very fragile,” Associated General Contractor of America CEO Stephen E. Sandherr said in a statement.

Cuts to federal investments in infrastructure projects could slow recovery in the industry, AGC said.

Get the most up-to-date data on the Rhode Island and southern Massachusetts business community from the PBN List Center. Download and purchase PBN Lists as well as the complete Book of Lists in Excel format.